Brush, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Brushed p. pr. & vb. n. Brushing.]
1. To apply a brush to, according to its particular use; to rub, smooth, clean, paint, etc., with a brush. “A' brushes his hat o' mornings.”
2. To touch in passing, or to pass lightly over, as with a brush.
Some spread their sailes, some with strong oars sweep
The waters smooth, and brush the buxom wave. --Fairfax.
Brushed with the kiss of rustling wings. --Milton.
3. To remove or gather by brushing, or by an act like that of brushing, or by passing lightly over, as wind; -- commonly with off.
As wicked dew as e'er my mother brushed
With raven's feather from unwholesome fen. --Shak.
And from the boughts brush off the evil dew. --Milton.
To brush aside, to remove from one's way, as with a brush.
To brush away, to remove, as with a brush or brushing motion.
To brush up, to paint, or make clean or bright with a brush; to cleanse or improve; to renew.
You have commissioned me to paint your shop, and I have done my best to brush you up like your neighbors. --Pope.
Brush·ing, a.
1. Constructed or used to brush with; as a brushing machine.
2. Brisk; light; as, a brushing gallop.
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brushing
n 1: the act of brushing your teeth; "the dentist recommended two
brushes a day" [syn: brush]
2: the act of brushing your hair; "he gave his hair a quick
brush" [syn: brush]